7 Repurposed Restaurants In Ohio Where The Atmosphere Is As Great As The Food
Sometimes, a meal at a unique restaurant is just what you need. Fortunately, Ohio is full of one-of-a-kind restaurants with fascinating backstories. From refurbished barns and schoolhouses to former jails and grocery stores, the following are 7 repurposed restaurants in Ohio where the atmosphere is just as amazing as the food.
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What was once the Wayne County Jail is now a special restaurant that both locals and visitors alike can't get enough of. The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern in Wooster, Ohio is a true historic gem that’s perfect for a special evening out. Between the unique atmosphere and the delicious cuisine, you’re sure to remember your visit here. (You can even dine in the former cell rooms, if you wish.) The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern is located at 215 N. Walnut St., Wooster, OH 44691.
To learn more, visit the official Facebook page for The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern.
2. The Stockport Mill Inn and Restaurant on the Dam (Stockport)
Tucked away along the Muskingum River in southeast Ohio, you'll find this hidden gem. The last remaining mill on the river is now a one-of-a-kind overnight getaway and restaurant. Today, it is still powered by hydroelectricity, and the mill itself has been in operation since 1842. You'll find it at 1995 Broadway St., Stockport, OH 43787.
To learn more, visit the official Facebook page for The Stockport Mill Inn and Restaurant on the Dam.
A refurbished rustic barn, board games and a scenic lake you can explore outside give this unique eatery an unbelievably charming atmosphere. You’ll fall in love with the setting and feel right at home. The Barn Restaurant is located at 877 W Main St., Smithville, OH 44677. To learn more, visit the official website for The Barn Restaurant in Ohio.
What was once a grocery store in the 1930s is now a beloved Amish restaurant that locals and visitors alike can't get enough of. Boyd and Wurthmann Restaurant is located at 4819 East Main St., Berlin, OH 44610. To learn more, visit the official website for Boyd and Wurthmann Restaurant.
This refurbished school house was built in the early 1860s during the Civil War. The Camp Dennison School was in operation from 1864 through 1954, and it is rumored to have been the first two-room, two-story school house in the Midwest. Today, it serves visitors many traditional homemade favorites such as fried chicken, meat loaf and mashed potatoes. The School House Restaurant is located at 8031 Glendale Milford Rd., Camp Dennison, OH 45111. To learn more, visit the official website for The Schoolhouse Restaurant in Ohio.
This restored 1868 Dutch bank barn overlooks the Killbuck Valley and family Christmas tree farm in Wooster. In addition to a gourmet luncheon restaurant, the property features a furniture store and gift shop. You'll find it at 4374 Shreve Rd., Wooster, OH 44691. To learn more, visit the official website for Pine Tree Barn.
If you’re a train enthusiast, there’s a restaurant in Ohio that’s just for you. The Berea Union Depot Restaurant in Berea, Ohio features a unique dining experience inside a historic train depot alongside active railroad tracks. What was once a bustling railroad hub in the late 1800s is now a family favorite restaurant where visitors can enjoy the history, unique atmosphere and passing trains. You'll find it at 30 Depot St., Berea, OH 44017. To learn more, visit the official website for The Berea Union Depot Restaurant.
Have you been to any of these repurposed restaurants in Ohio? If so, we want to know what your experience was like! Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another unique restaurant in the Buckeye State, nominate it for a chance to be featured.
Address: 1995 Broadway St, Stockport, OH 43787, USA
Address: 877 W Main St, Smithville, OH 44677, USA
Address: 4819 E Main St, Berlin, OH 44610, USA
Address: 8031 Glendale Milford Rd, Camp Dennison, OH 45111, USA
Address: 4374 Shreve Rd, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
Address: 30 Depot St, Berea, OH 44017, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
repurposed restaurants in Ohio
September 10, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the most beautiful restaurants in Ohio?
You know we love a good hole in the wall cafe, but sometimes it’s nice to relax under twinkle lights and look out over gorgeous vistas. There are so many beautiful restaurants in Ohio that will take your breath away. If you don’t know where to start, check out our list of the most gorgeous places to eat in Ohio. Whether you’re planning a special occasion dinner or just wanting to treat yourself, these stunning destinations will give you a memorable dining experience.
What are the most unique restaurants in Ohio?
Nobody wants to eat somewhere that’s boring! Shake up your dining routine by visiting one of these unique restaurants in Ohio. From kooky themed eateries to historic dining rooms, these restaurants will certainly spark your sense of adventure.
What are the best themed restaurants in Ohio?
You’ll feel like a superhero when you eat at Super Chef’s in Ohio! This themed restaurant is both whimsical and delicious. It’s perfect for young ones, but adults will love it too. For more fun, visit The Buckeye Express Diner in Bellville. This cozy eatery is the ultimate place for Ohio State fans. The entire dining area is decked out with memorabilia, jerseys, and Ohio State decor.
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
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